03/03/2026
Did you know that a medium sized dog that gained 6 pounds is equivalent to a person gaining 25 pounds? And 1 extra pound on a cat is like 15 extra pounds on you!
Weight management is a critical component of overall animal health. Every animal has different food needs, but these tips are a good baseline for preventing obesity:
1. Measure Food Accurately
Use a measuring cup or kitchen scale to ensure your pet gets the right portion size—guessing often leads to overfeeding. Remember to count any treats towards the daily food intake!
2. Choose Nutrient-Dense Food
Select high-quality, research supported, pet food that provides balanced nutrition. Pay attention to the calorie amount, it can change widely based on brand and flavor!
3. Know when to involve the Vet
Consistent weight gain, or difficulty losing weight, can be an indicator of underlying health concerns. Your vet can run testing and give specific guidance based on your pet’s needs.
4. Encourage Daily Exercise
Schedule regular walks, play sessions, or interactive games to keep your pet active and burn calories.
5. Track Progress Regularly
Weigh your pet every few weeks and adjust food portions or activity levels based on results. Consistent monitoring helps maintain steady progress.